Security

Getting Contractors The Right Bullet Resistant Barrier For Their Clients

Today Total Security Solutions is a major nationwide bullet resistant barrier component manufacturer—but that wasn’t always the case. TSS started out exclusively sub-contracting, supplying contractors and glaziers. Although TSS does a great deal of “tier 1” direct client work now, roughly 60 percent of their business is still in subcontracting. “We really value keeping that balance,” TSS CEO Jim Richards says. “We can be as hands-on as the contractor needs, without getting between them and their client.”

Designing and Implementing the Right Bullet Resistant Barrier for the Project

In contrast to many bullet resistant component suppliers, even as they’ve grown TSS has avoided punching out cookie-cutter mix-n-match pieces. They specialize in complete, end-to-end bullet resistant barrier systems, each of which is custom designed, engineered, and fabricated to meet a specific client’s needs.

“Every barrier,” Jim notes, “Is a specific solution for a specific situation. And because we have a lot of experience handling the full client experience—not just sub-contracting—we’re sensitive to all the places something can start to go off the rails: A mismatch in hardware when the client needs discreet security, tolerance stack-ups creating installation issues, miscommunications that can drive up costs or slow down delivery.”

Framing is a perfect example. Most bullet proof companies are still using un-rated frames. This helps keep their quote low, but it is a big security trade off. It’s troubling to imagine a bullet resistant barrier with a UL-rated window held in place with framing someone ran out and grabbed at Home Depot.

“We can help you with clients who are having trouble coming to grips with the gap between what they want, what they need, and what they can afford.”

Helping Contractors Through the Hard Conversations

TSS has a lot of experience helping manage sticker shock. As TSS Sales Manager Bob George explains, “Many clients come in saying ‘We want Level 8, we want the highest.’ Yes, Level 8 is going to protect your from some pretty heavy-duty stuff, but the windows will be 2.5” thick—double the thickness of Level 3, and almost triple the weight, nearly 30 pounds per square foot. It’s a very difficult material to work with. The material itself is more expensive, and much more difficult to fabricate. The added weight means you need to beef up walls and counters, and make special arrangements to bring the material in and position it. Two guys aren’t going to put a thousand pound window in place on their own. Going up to Level 8 drives up labor costs significantly. Do you need that extremely high level of protection?”

Jim adds, “They often can’t fathom that this material is at least double what normal glass costs. Depending on the scope of work, it can climb from there to three times, even five times more. Talking someone down in this situation, that might not be comfortable for you—after all, we’re talking about people’s safety here. But these are conversations we have every day. We’re ready to drill down and figure out what they really need and how we can get that to them within their budget.”

Giving Contractors No-Drama Installations

Jim and his team pride themselves on “silent installations”—an installation that’s so hassle-free it’s almost like magic. For TSS, the proof is in the testimonials:

“They were here when they said they were going to be, with the estimates and the drawings, they showed up when they were supposed to, and everything was just as neat as a pin. We were really, really tickled with their work.”—Holly Eades, Clark Energy vice president of finance
“It was very easy for us, very easy to deal with TSS. We just had no issues at all. … They did all their work at night. I made sure they were set up, they came and talked to me beforehand, told me what they needed, and made sure the alarms were good and gave them time frames, and they were in and out, totally cleaned up when the left—it was seamless. … It looks great. We love it.”—Gina Mims, facilities supervisor for the Health Plan of San Joaquin

“Sure, we like the ‘wow factor,'” Jim says. “We’re really pleased when a client walks in and says, ‘Wow! This looks so good, so much better than we’d hoped!’ But I’ve gotta say, that silence—when something went so smoothly they don’t even think to remark on it until you ask—that’s when we know we really made a contractor look good.”

Source: http://www.tssbulletproof.com/getting-contractors-right-bullet-resistant-barrier/

Product: Bullet Resistant Barriers

Tags: Glass | Security | Windows

You Deserve to be Delighted: 10 Essential Elements to Look for in a Security Entrance Manufacturer

Today’s security entrances can last 10 years or more, so your organization can go years without installing a single new entrance. This fact alone intensifies your need for a great experience during the buying process and beyond, so that you are assured the right entrance to meet your needs for years to come. How do you better your chances for such a great experience? Here are 10 factors a manufacturer should offer to create a stellar 360-degree customer experience.

Going global

Can the manufacturer deliver a premium service experience and quality entrance solutions on a global scale? Such a company will have manufacturing facilities around the world in strategic locations as well as subsidiaries and partners. Is there only one factory in China? How long does product delivery take compared to a regional/local manufacturing plant and how much of a premium is there on shipping everything from overseas?

Who you gonna call?

Most manufacturers have regional sales managers and that person is your initial main point of contact. Look for a manufacturer that has a large number of direct employees (not manufacturer’s reps) in this role that have small territories so you get the attention you deserve. They can help you determine the right entrance for your specific security needs and even conduct a site walk in person.

Working like machines behind the scenes

The best firms have an inside sales/customer service team to manage your entire order from PO to shipment directly within the manufacturing facility. Ask if you will be assigned a dedicated representative that will communicate with you proactively, check your order for accuracy, liaise on your behalf internally about customizations, and keep you updated on production lead times and shipping timelines.

It's all about location, location, location

A manufacturer with a factory that shares the same continent with you has several advantages. They employ highly trained assembly technicians and source materials locally (lower costs than importing and lower carbon footprint). They also can conduct quality assurance in-house and will have better control over the finished product. Finally, you get faster lead times and lower freight costs.

Expect no surprises

Is there an in-house installation management team that works to ensure no surprises come up during the product installation? The best such teams will walk you through the scope of work so you are aware of exactly what the installation process entails. They also prepare the onsite contractors and installers to receive and properly install the entrance solution.

A second pair of eyes

The best companies will have a team of field service technicians around the country who are available, upon request, to check each entrance after installation for proper operation. The technician can also verify the entrance integrates properly with other components of the building, e.g., fire alarms and access control systems.

Back up and running in no time

How quickly can you get your issue resolved while potentially hundreds of people are being diverted to another entrance? Ask for an organizational chart for the Technical Support department: it should be robust, indicating investment in expertise and customer satisfaction. Ask if they measure their same-day call resolution percentage and parts fulfillment percentage.

Technical training for tuned-in teammates

The last thing you want is the repair call where, upon arrival you hear, “I’ve never seen this type of turnstile/door before.” Where is the nearest service partner located? What kind of technical training resources does the manufacturer provide to educate and certify its service partners? Is there a dedicated full-time role or staff that educates and certifies the installer on the solution you’ve selected? The goal of the best training programs must be to prepare local partners for flawless installation.

Regular assessment of your investment

Look for some kind of preventive maintenance plan (PPM's). It’s an optional service that brings in-house factory expertise to your site to perform annual and bi-annual maintenance checks on your entrance. PPM’s ensure the longevity of your asset for maximum ROI.

Same experience, every time

With top, global manufacturers, you can save money, decrease time spent on training, and improve efficiency by planning and executing the same, high quality product line to all your building locations around the world. Being able to standardize on one manufacturer across your entire organization is a huge advantage in cost and time savings.

Company: Boon Edam Inc.

Source: http://blog.boonedam.us/you-deserve-to-be-delighted-10-essential-elements-to-look-for-in-a-security-entrance-manufacturer

Tags: Entrances | Exterior Design | Interior Design | Security

Video Surveillance In 2017: 4 Things You Need To Know

Photo credit: Pixabay

Video surveillance systems have, for years, been excellent tools to protect the safety of your staff and your clients. Updates in technology have served to make them more effective and less expensive at the same time. Newer video systems have capabilities that were only dreamed of in the past. Is it time to update your video surveillance system? Keep these developments in mind:

1. Many sectors need a video surveillance update

The publication Business Systems reports that 80% of hospitals, for instance, need to update their video surveillance systems. These systems can help organizations cut their liability in cases like slip and fall accidents. They can also significantly extend the capabilities of overstretched nursing staff; video cameras can capture events when it is not possible for an individual to be in the room. Other industries with similar liabilities and risks can mitigate them through the use of video surveillance. Newer technology and lower prices mean that you can afford to provide more coverage throughout your buildings to keep a better eye on what is going on.

2. Analog is out; IP is in

Still using analog tapes for your security footage? Experts report that the tipping point has come and that IP cameras are now the more common option, and with good reason. IP cameras that send surveillance video to digital storage offers the ability to store far more footage. These cameras are far easier to place in your facility than older, bulkier models. They offer much higher resolutions, with high definition cameras becoming far more affordable. These can be much more useful if there is a need to identify someone in the face of an act of theft, violence or another security issue.

3. Biometrics and smart cameras will play a bigger part

Instead of an individual buzzing in personnel, what if the camera could recognize an individual and provide access? Face recognition has long been used to identify criminals; now, it can also be used for tasks like access control in your buildings.

New cameras with intelligence embedded will be able to offer analytics that can be used not just for security but for business purposes. For instance, a system can help you analyze foot traffic into a business during specific times of day.

4. There will be a strong focus on cyber security

With the growth of the internet of things and a large number of recent high-profile cyber incursions, security of the data that is collected will be as important as the physical security in the building. To ensure that your clients and staff continue to enjoy privacy and safety, it is vital that the data from your cameras be well-secured. Experts in the field recommend keeping up to date on cyber security issues, such as newly discovered vulnerabilities in operating systems and commonly used software. By attending to these, you can reduce the chances that your video will be improperly accessed.

Video camera technology continues to improve, offering more to concerned facility runners and business owners at a lower cost than ever. Look into the latest upgrades available for your video surveillance system to ensure that you are offering the best possible protection to the people who work for you and the people who come to your location.

Product: Accessories

Source: http://www.tssbulletproof.com/things-know-video-surveillance/

Tags: Audio Visual | Safety | Security

Active Shooter Safety: 4 Things Your High Security Entrances Must Have

According to a study completed by the FBI, in 2014 and 2015 alone, there were 231 casualties as a result of mass shootings. Let’s examine 4 enhancements you can make to security revolving doors or mantrap portals to thwart an active shooter’s attempt at gaining access to your building, or worse, doing physical harm to people.

1) Anti-Piggybacking Technology

An active shooter with an agenda will be determined to infiltrate your building. He sees an innocent employee approaching the security revolving door or portal. His first thought? Hold them at gunpoint and force them, and himself, through the entrance.

This scenario describes a “piggybacking” event. When it comes to security revolving doors, the term "piggybacking" refers to an attempt to gain access to a secured area by jumping into the same compartment as an authorized user. For portals, piggybacking involves two users attempting to enter the door at the same time.

Tailgating and Piggybacking

StereoVision 2 is a sophisticated technology from Boon Edam that puts a stop to piggybacking attempts. Using a combination of an optical camera and active, near-infrared sensors, StereoVision 2 technology can recognize shapes, sizes and volume in three dimensions. Simply put, the system is looking into the door’s compartment and searching for a set of head and shoulders, as well as body shape. Based on a sampling algorithm, unusual shapes are rejected and the culprit(s) are required to exit the door.

2) Biometric Devices

But what if the active shooter doesn’t stop there? If the shooter were to steal an employee’s access card and attempt to proceed through the door - alone - he could gain access UNLESS you utilize one or more biometric devices.

Biometric devices identify unique physiological characteristics, such as fingerprints, hand geometry, facial features, and iris patterns. They also comply with two-factor authentication (2FA) regulations. These devices alone will not stop an active shooter from gaining access to a building, though (think about a swinging door opened by a registered user, and then held open for numerous people to pass through). But, when coupled with an anti-piggybacking technology, biometric devices provide a solid defense against unauthorized entry.

Security revolving doors can be equipped with an external biometric post placed immediately outside of the door, or as one of many leading up to the door. Security mantrap portals are available with an interior post, ideal for mounting the latest biometric technology directly inside the door. Both options provide a layered method of access and meet 2FA compliance. Keep in mind, though, that your throughput will be impacted by the type of biometric device you choose to incorporate.

3) Bullet-Resistant Glass

9mm Hand Gun The common denominator between all mass shootings is a weapon. And it comes as no surprise that most active shooters choose the light, inexpensive and easy to conceal 9mm semiautomatic handgun to carry out their schemes, according to data compiled by The Washington Post. Bullet-resistant glass can safeguard the integrity of your door up to a certain point, and possibly save lives.

Bullet-resistant (BR) glass is the layer of armor your security door needs for protection against an active shooter attack. BR glass is made from layers of polycarbonate (tough plastic) sandwiched between pieces of toughened glass. And not all BR glass is created equal; there are different BR-rated protection levels.

Security revolving doors and mantrap portals can be outfitted in BR glass with protection Level 3. As mentioned, the weapon most commonly used by an active shooter is a 9mm handgun. According to Total Security Solutions, BR glass with a Level 3 rating is capable of stopping three .44 magnum bullets, or a bullet that is twice as heavy and moves significantly faster than the bullet of a 9mm handgun.

Level 3 BR glass is 1.04” thick, over 4 times the thickness of standard security door glass. The glass can be used on the outer drum glass and also, the moving door wings or panels. It's important to note that using thicker glass on moving door wings or panels will slow the movement significantly due to the extra weight and impact throughput levels.

4) Bullet-Resistant Curtain Wall or Storefront

Active shooter safety extends beyond your security door to include the adjacent walls or storefront area. To be prepared for a direct attack, and especially if people are constantly present on the inside of the storefront, you should consider replacing your curtain wall or storefront with BR glass.

Because they are flat and stationary, curtain walls and storefronts can accommodate a much higher level of BR glass than a security door (which has curved glass or moving glass in the door wings). BR glass for the curtain wall or storefront is available in up to a Level 8 rating which, according to Total Security Solutions, is capable of stopping 5 shots from a .308 caliber 7.62mm rifle.

Unfortunately, active shooter incidents are occurring at company locations across the nation, and the globe. The impact of such an event can be catastrophic to an organization if lives are lost. If you believe your organization could be at risk, these 4 enhancements for your security revolving door or mantrap portal can thwart an active shooter’s attempt at infiltrating your building and wreaking havoc.

Company: Boon Edam Inc.

Source: http://blog.boonedam.us/active-shooter-safety-4-things-your-high-security-entrances-must-have

Of: Amy Coulter

Tags: Entrances | Security

Preparing Glaziers To Work With Bulletproof Glass

Glaziers are often a little reluctant to pick up that first bullet proof security job. The stakes are high, the materials are expensive, and the challenges are unknown. Total Security Solutions has helped many glaziers work with bulletproof glass. Let’s start with three basic concepts that are important to know:

It’s Not Glass and It’s Not Bullet Proof:
Given enough bullets and enough time, a determined attacker can chew through anything. “Bullet proof glass” is technically “bullet resistant” and either made from monolithic acrylic or laminated layers of polycarbonate and tempered glass.
It’s Not a Window—It’s a System:
A bullet resistant window that can stop an AR-15 is useless if it’s mounted in a wall that can’t stop a .22 pistol. Take five minutes to check out our crash course in bullet resistant barrier systems.
Help is Out There:
We are ready to support you through the installation—but these three tips will prevent common problems.

Total Security Solutions Helps Glaziers Work With Bulletproof Glass

Most glaziers are reasonably hesitant to bring in a big, full-service national bullet proofing company. “A client who needs a barrier is good business for a local glazier,” Total Security Solutions CEO Jim Richards explains. “Bullet resistant materials are a cut above the norm. Naturally, that glazier is worried that we want to take their customers. I totally understand where they’re coming from. But this is where we started: Supplying contractors and glaziers. We’re very comfortable pulling way back into the shadows so that glaziers can really shine.”

Once you gather all of the information from your client (primarily measurements, but also some insights into how the facility is used, peak business hours, known or suspected threats, etc.) Total Security Solutions will design and engineer a barrier system customized for your client. TSS can help you with approval drawings for permits, managing client expectations, and so on, so you can get this job moving.

Once approved, Total Security Solutions will supply you all the materials, fully fabricated, as assembled as possible. “We design it and fabricate it, you install it, you reinforce that good relationship with your client. We’ll supply you exactly what you need, and help you behind the scenes to get that install perfect. If anything comes up, any uncertainty, you give us a call.”

How to Score a Big Win with your First Bullet Resistant Barrier

The important thing to remember is that regardless of how much experience you have, it is almost always the first time the client has considered adding a bullet resistant barrier to their business. They’re on uncertain ground, and this is a big investment.

“This is a great time to prove to them how valuable your expertise is,” Jim adds. He has found that most clients come in asking for much more bullet proof security than they need. They also may make very specific requests for very specific components. Do they really need that style door or window, or is it just what they’ve seen elsewhere? “Start the conversation with questions,” Jim suggests. “Why do they want a BP barrier now? Has there been a local incident? What type of incident are they concerned about?What types of firearms? Why?”

These questions will give you a sense of how extensive the barrier needs to be and what UL level they should consider.

“Then follow up with some questions about their business: What needs to pass through the barrier? Will it be paperwork or cash or packages? How often do staff need to come and go? Finally, ask ‘What do you want to accomplish?’ Because sometimes I find that folks are limited by what they already know,” Jim notes. “For example, they may have a 12-foot long hole in the wall, with the idea they’ll install three transaction windows in there and fill between. In that conversation, I’d say ‘Well, what about making it a single system?’And they ask ‘What’s a system?’ Because most end users aren’t familiar with custom systems, and the fact that a system can be more cost effective than cobbling together a bunch of generic drop-in pieces—not to mention more secure and look a lot nicer.”

Source: http://www.tssbulletproof.com/glaziers-working-bullet-proof-glass-client/

Product: Ballistic Security Glass

Tags: Glass | Safety | Security | Windows

Source: http://blog.boonedam.us/door-access-control-security-entrance-integration-techniques

Door Access Control & Security Entrance Integration Techniques

You are likely convinced that a physical security entrance is absolutely necessary in order to get the most out of your access control system and truly keep unwanted people out of your facility. Integration between door access control systems and security entrances can be a fine art; the perfect balance of functionality, space and aesthetics.

There are various types of access control systems available today, everything from bar code and QR code readers, to fingerprint and iris scanners, to traditional card readers and key pads. The size and shape of each individual device varies greatly based on both type and manufacturer. Let’s discuss some ways you can integrate your access control system with your security entrances.

Four Integration Techniques

All physical security entrances have a designated place for your access control device – optical turnstiles: under the cabinet top; full height turnstiles, security revolving doors and portals: mounted on the side post. Yet, based primarily on space and what you are trying to achieve, these designated mounting places may not fit your needs. Here are some alternative options:

Top-mounted: For optical turnstiles, mounting an access control device on top of the cabinet is an integration method that is most intuitive for the user because the reader is visible when approaching the lane. Organizations that utilize lift or elevator notification devices (destination dispatch) have also found that top mounting is a viable option. They tend to place the access control device in the designated area (under the top), and the elevator notification device either on the turnstile top, or on a custom pedestal (read on to learn more about this option).
Panel Cut-outs: Another option for optical turnstiles, panel cut-outs are typically used due to space limitations on or under the top. This type of mounting can be used as the sole means of accessing the secure area, or in addition to the traditional, under-the-top mounting option (two-factor authentication). Some companies have even used the panel cut-out to mount a device that is used solely for visitor entry. While this option of mounting is aesthetically pleasing, (no big device on top of your turnstile), it does require user training because the reader is not always easily visible.
Custom Pedestal: For entrances of all types, pedestals are a common way to mount an access control device. We’ve seen some basic, standard pedestal designs, but some manufacturers are working with the end user to develop a sleek pedestal that imitates the curves and design of the entrance itself – true integration at its finest.
Interior-mounted: Security mantrap portals are a unique, high security entrance designed to protect the most sensitive of areas. This sophisticated portal can be equipped with a biometric post for an interior-mounted access control device. Often used in conjunction with an external, side post-mounted device, the interior biometric device allows organizations to achieve two-factor authentication.

Two-Factor and Multifactor Authentication

Large companies are implementing two-factor and multifactor authentication techniques at their facilities to decrease the possibility of an intruder infiltrating the building. According to LoginTC, two-factor authentication means, “an attacker needs to solve two fundamentally different problems, each in different dimensions, in order to compromise your identity.”

Utilization of two-factor or multifactor authentication typically involves the integration of two different access control devices for access through a single security entrance. This level of integration requires proper preparation and planning. There are, however, some all-in-one devices that can accept two or three authentications, e.g., a single Morpho Sigma device can accept any combination of a card reader, unique pin and/or fingerprint.

The fusion of your access control device and your security entrances shouldn’t be an afterthought, but an integral part of your building design from the very beginning. Speak to your security entrance manufacturer about the solution that will work the best for your organization.

Company: Boon Edam Inc.

Of: Amy Coulter

Tags: Design | Entrances | Security

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Bulletproof Systems and Accessories for Every Building

Architects turn to Total Security Solutions for project support

Even if you’ve worked with bullet-resistant components before, it can be difficult to know how to manage that part of your project. Our bullet resistant experts can help with assessment, design and installation of a complete bulletproof barrier system, or individual bullet-resistant features and accessories. We’ve done thousands of projects across dozens of industries throughout the country, and our turnaround time is the fastest in the industry. Our work will fit in seamlessly with your design because we do our own field measurements and hand-craft our materials at our in-house manufacturing facility.

Architects Turn to Total Security Solutions for Project Support

Strict proven process

Our bulletproof experts follow a strict proven process so that no detail is overlooked. We’ll help you select the right glazing, accessories and materials for your project and deliver and install your barrier and components in half the time of our competition.

See How We Develop Custom Barriers

Industry experts add value.

As a trusted leader in the bulletproof industry with 12,000+ installations to date, we bring more to the table than just our bulletproof products. We bring experience that will help you make better decisions, and avoid commonly-made mistakes. If your project includes bulletproof features, you’re going to need a partner you can rely on whose work speaks for itself.

Check Out Our Latest Work

Resources just for architects

Our Architect Resource Center has videos, CAD drawings, specs and data sheets for every possible bulletproof item you could need. From frames to counters, doors to windows, fiberglass and beyond — get the details and information necessary to plan a successful project.

Visit the Resource Center

Full line of bullet-resistant products

We design and manufacture every single bulletproof product we install. TSS offers a variety of ballistic windows, doors, drawers, trays, and 8 levels of UL-rated bulletproof glass. We have everything you need right here.

Shop Our Products

Product: Bullet Resistant Barriers

Source: http://www.tssbulletproof.com/industries/architects/

Tags: Entrances | Interior Design | Safety | Security

Guard Houses

Par-Kut provides guard houses used to shelter security personnel. Par-Kut guard houses are long-lasting, portable steel buildings.

Par-Kut provides the most rugged and well built guard houses, guard booths, guard shelters, border inspection booths, security access control checkpoints and observation towers. Par-Kut’s guard houses are all prefabricated guard houses. Our customers include government, private industry, airports, nuclear power plants and U.S. Military facilities across the country and around the world. Par-Kut’s all welded steel construction and use of durable, low maintenance materials ensure the guard booth’s greatest longevity. Special security features are offered to customize the security guard booth to your location requirements and to keep your security officers comfortable as well as secure. Go to BULLET RESISTANT to learn more about Par-Kut’s enhanced ballistic construction options for hi-risk environments.

In some industries, guard houses or guard booths are known as guard shacks. Whether described as a security guard shack, portable guard house, security guard house, or security guard booth, Par-Kut factory-assembled, portable steel buildings provide a ready-made solution to your security shelter problem.

Par-Kut offers guard house drawings and guard house designs to suit just about every application and if we haven’t helped somebody with a similar requirement in the past, we will work with you to provide guard house designs to meet your site specific needs. In fact, the simplest way to start a productive dialogue is to send us a simple thumb nail sketch showing your guard booth drawing or guard house design. Par-Kut stands ready to assist you with your guard house architecture and guard shack floor plans.

For a guard house best for your location, and best for your guard house budget over the long run, call one of our sales professionals here at Par-Kut. Investing only a few minutes of time for discussion will enable you to receive a quotation for a guard booth or guard shack that is catered to your specific situation. Whether you need a standard, a bullet resistant or an elevated or highly portable trailer mounted guard house or security booth; a durable steel PAR-KUT guardhouse will meet your needs and provide you a service life unsurpassed by any competitor.

When you are speaking with a Par-Kut sales professional about your guard house, especially, a prefab guard house, it is important to identify the city and state where your guard booths are going to be installed. Codes regulating all types of factory assembled structures, including prefab guard houses, vary from state to state. Please have this information ready when you contact Par-Kut for a quote on your guard house. Prefabricated guard houses are lumped together with other pre manufactured structures for code purposes, although this practice does not take into consideration the vast differences in typical applications. However, a guard house from Par-Kut will meet or exceed most model building codes. Prefabricated guard booths can be amortized for tax purposes if recordable as the proper type of equipment. Check with your accounting dept, or financial advisor to see what steps should be taken for proper recording of your prefabricated guard booth. Prefab guard shacks and modular guard houses, when specified and purchased properly, will serve for decades. Par-Kut will work with you to outline your needs and a budget price for the guard shack or guard house that you need for a guard shelter.

Go to GALLERIES to view additional guard houses.

Company: Par-Kut International, Inc.

Product: PRESIDENTIAL

Source: http://www.parkut.com/booths/applications/guard-houses/

Tags: Design | Entrances | Safety | Security

Security Entrances Protect Your Bottom Line and More

Executives must handle large security decisions that affect the entire organization – and these choices are rarely easy.

One reason is that there are often competing goals – balancing security vs. convenience, or allocating budget to one priority area vs. another. To make it worse, these decisions – for example, on how to deal with potential security risks – can rely on data that the organization is not tracking.

That may sound hard to believe, but it’s the exact problem Boon Edam found when we conducted a survey on tailgating, drawing responses from hundreds of end users, security integrators and consultants. Most respondents stated that the cost of a physical breach caused by tailgating could range from $150,000 to millions of dollars – even though the overwhelming majority (84%) of respondents weren’t tracking tailgating or didn’t know if they were.

While most businesses know the basic purpose of entrance solutions, many don’t realize the huge number of benefits they can provide – from business analytics to the bottom line.

Cost-Effective Security and Efficient Access

Security entrances can range in purpose from simple crowd control all the way up to comprehensive detection/prevention. With regard to selection, many companies find simpler turnstiles attractive due to the relatively lower capital expenditures and reduced need for user training. While such systems can be an effective deterrent to threats, organizations should consider other costs the system may necessitate, such as those from guard staff or supplemental security systems. For this reason, often companies can achieve greater savings by opting for a security revolving door system: while the initial capital expenditure may be higher than a simpler turnstile system, the business can end up saving a great deal in annual operations costs by reducing the need for supplemental security staff.

In terms of access efficiency, organizations have multiple options as well. For example, a mantrap system may be ideal for a business that requires high security but generally has only a few people going through an entrance at a time. Meanwhile, if the business requires high security but must also accommodate a higher throughput at times (such as during lunch hours), a security revolving door system may end up being the better choice.

Impressive Business Intelligence

To maximize the effectiveness of your security program, it is helpful to remember the old adage: what can be measured can be managed. To that end, security entrances can help

achieve specific security objectives through relevant KPIs. Generally speaking, the level of intelligence received depends on how sophisticated the entrance system is. Simpler waist high turnstiles are useful for basic tracking, such as the number of people entering the facility, though the system may still be vulnerable to turnstile-hoppers. While guard staff can provide supplemental information (visitor data, infraction reports, etc.), data gathered through this approach may be affected by social engineering, including distractions or favoritism on the part of security staff. Ultimately this type of security entrance is best suited to lower-security areas of a facility.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, the sophisticated tailgating and piggybacking detection systems in security revolving doors and mantrap portal solutions provide a wealth of valuable data. These include a great deal of granular information that replaces what a guard could be asked to provide manually – e.g., number of passages, inbound/outbound tailgating and piggybacking rejections, biometric access control rejections, emergency button rejections and so on. Such information is very useful in providing very accurate intelligence on throughput, user education needs, etc.

The most provocative data is predictive data that can tell you your chances of being infiltrated. Security revolving doors and mantrap portals include anti-piggybacking detection technology sophisticated enough to provide a probability, expressed as a small percentage, that two people could piggyback through the door successfully. This capability is new territory for the security industry and allows executives a high degree of confidence that the places these doors protect are secure from infiltration.

Strengthening Corporate Image: Inside and Outside

Let’s face it: perceptions matter. Organizational leaders are responsible for ensuring that their businesses are perceived as safe. And while actual safety and perceived safety are inter-related, they are not always identical. This is seen in other areas of life as well: for example, one YouGov poll showed that people believed that New York City is the second most dangerous city in the US, even though data shows that NYC is in fact the least dangerous large city in the United States.

While harder to measure, aesthetic perceptions matter for businesses as well. To that end, the perception-building process begins the moment a person walks through the door (and oftentimes before that). With that in mind, security entrances should foster confidence for all parties who rely on them: the system must not only protect employees but also help them feel safe on a day to day basis. Beyond actual safety, security entrances also create a feeling of prestige for the facility that impacts personnel and visitors alike. A new visitor’s first interaction with your brand may be with the security system. That first interaction and every one after should foster a feeling of competence, sophistication, efficiency and safety. The more effective companies are at building a positive image in smaller ways, the more effective they’ll be when doing so in bigger ways.

Company: Boon Edam Inc.

Source: http://blog.boonedam.us/security-entrances-protect-your-bottom-line-and-more

Tags: Doors | Entrances | Security

Source: http://www.woodworkingnetwork.com/closets/how-create-thief-proof-closets

How to create theft-proof closets

Beautiful cabinetry in high-end closets no longer has to be marred by ugly, burglar-enticing locks. Thanks to an innovative smart-locking system invented for cabinetry in upscale commercial environments, luxury homeowners can attractively protect their valuables in closets and cabinets.

Jerry Wilson, president of Florida-based Bespoke Design & Consulting, was seeking an effective but unobtrusive locking system to integrate into custom furnishings in walk-in closets in an addition to the master wing of a high-end South Florida home.

“The homeowners needed commercial-strength security to protect the husband’s watch collection and the wife’s jewelry, but wanted to avoid keyholes because they alert thieves to valuable items, are unsightly, and require finding the right key,” Wilson says.

Inside the installation of the Senseon RFID-powered system

The Senseon Secure Access Control System, an RFID-powered system that Wilson had seen demonstrated at a trade show, proved to be the perfect solution. “Senseon enhances the safety of luxury goods and gives homeowners peace of mind,” he says. “In addition, the plug-and-play system was easy to install, and Senseon customer support was great in helping me coordinate with the cabinetmaker, electrician and installer.”

“Everything is completely invisible,” Wilson notes. E-locks were installed on the side of a cabinet in the husband’s closet, as well as under the top of a velvet-lined, multi-drawered jewelry case in the wife’s closet.

“They love the new system,” Wilson adds. “It’s state-of-the-art, they know their valuables are safe, and they don’t have to fumble around for a key or hide a key. They use a smart card for access.”

Wilson, whose firm provides upscale residential interior design and general contracting, said he is incorporating Senseon into all projects requiring locks in closets or cabinets.

Editor's Note: Sean Jordan is a Business Development Specialist for Senseon.

Company: Accuride International

Of: Sean Jordan

Tags: Furniture | Interior Design | Security

New AIA Certified Course on Resilient Design

The Role of Commercial Steel Doors in Resilient Design

AMBICO now offers a new AIA certified course currently available for architects online through AEC Daily. The Role of Commercial Steel Doors in Resilient Design is our first course to qualify for 1.5 CEU credits. In addition, it qualifies for LU, HSW, GBCI, and more. You can view the course here.

Why Resilient Design?

Resiliency is a growing necessity. It’s important to understand the impacts natural and man-made disasters have on the built environment and to design for those impacts now. This course will provide an overview of the benefits of using steel doors in resilient design strategy. This includes applications requiring resistance to blasts, tornadoes, and ballistics.

Click here to take the Course!

Company: Ambico

Source: https://www.ambico.com/blog/

Tags: Design | Security

Global changes in construction: Kalwall's insights from BAU

What happens when you bring together 250,000 people from around the world for six days in Munich, Germany?

Ideas are exchanged.
Best practices are shared.
Deeper levels of understanding are reached.

That was, in a nutshell, BAU 2017, the world’s leading trade fair for architecture, materials and systems with the 2,210 exhibitors from 45 countries. More than 80,000 people had, like us, travelled overseas.

From our vantage point at the Kalwall® exhibit – our first time exhibiting at BAU (German for `construction’) – we could see how much the world beyond the borders of the United States is changing and this was a chance to see how architects, owners, contractors and other business people are responding to those changes.

Here are three key takeaways from BAU 2017 affecting daylighting and fenestration globally.

1. Safety and security is no longer just about airports and government buildings

The safety, security and privacy of guests at hotels, students at schools and employees at banks and high finance institutions are becoming harder to ensure. While airport administrators and government facilities have been working with Kalwall for years to find solutions to similar problems, it was interesting to see the volume of private business owners looking for similar answers.Kalwall’s specialty systems meet UFC 4-010-01 blast requirements and can, for example, provide an extra level of safety for guests in a hotel lobby from a car bombing in the street outside. The translucent panels also afford more privacy while providing museum-quality daylighting™ for interior spaces.

2. Canopies need to be rugged and resistant to pollution

Pollution and heat in certain regions of the world take their toll on canopies meant to provide shelter and shade, leaving architects and construction managers searching for alternatives to less durable polycarbonates.The ruggedness and capacity to resist fading in intense heat, along with its ability keep clean where pollution is a concern made Kalwall canopies an appealing option to business people in desert climates as well as industrial cities.

3. Energy is expensive and daylighting solutions are more important than ever

Technology was a dominant part of the conversation at BAU and a major reason why the world is seeking better ways to produce and store energy. I think my grandfather, Kalwall founder Robert R. Keller, would have been smiling. After all, energy efficiency was one of the reasons he developed his translucent sandwich panel in 1955.

Our technology, with its best in industry thermal and solar heat gain performance, was a conversation starter for business people concerned with the high cost of energy and the ways to be efficient. Renovations, in particular, present cladders the challenge of finding energy efficient solutions.

BAU 2017 was an opportunity to expose more people globally to the benefits of Kalwall. They came looking for the latest advancements, but some technology stands the test of time. This was re-affirmation of a technology we developed 62 years ago.

Company: Kalwall Corporation

Of: Amelia Keller

Source: https://www.kalwall.com/2017/02/13/a-kellers-bau-insights/

High-Function Custom Bullet Resistant Solutions for Banks

Because most banks have similar needs—a secured teller line with bullet resistant windows, secured ballistic doors, and bulletproof fiberglass to reinforce counters—many security companies try and push a one-size-fits-all solution.

With decades of experience designing, engineering, fabricating, and installing custom bandit barriers in banks and credit unions, Total Security Solutions knows how rarely this turns out well.

Bullet Proof Barriers Attuned to the Banker’s Needs

“Banks can be pretty ornate, so were used to having to adjust what we do to match a given location.” Total Security Solutions CEO Jim Richards explains, “That’s our speciality, that sort of customization. Even when we’re doing many locations for the same chain, in different parts of the country each office looks a little bit different. It’s like housing, in that it has this regional component. So we don’t try to come up with a single one-size solution we can just keep punching out.”

Total Security Solutions isn’t limited to just shuffling around pre-fabricated pieces. They can customize down to the individual component level: curved ballistic transparency, special communication and ventilation solutions, all-glass and completely custom high-security doors, and so on.

In contrast to many security companies—especially local glazers—Total Security Solutions is sensitive to how important relationships are in banking. Jim puts special emphasis on clear sight lines and communication in such settings. Gina Mims, a facilities manager, recently coordinated with Total Security Solutions to secure several offices for the Health Plan of San Joaquin: “I love the fact that … it doesn’t look like the old school [barrier] with that metal plate [and talk hole]. It all looks very nice. Our buildings, both of them, are very modern, so I wanted to make sure that they stayed along those lines.”

ATMs: An Evolving Security Challenge

ATMs pose obvious risks to customers, both in terms of their physical safety and fraud exposure. They are also proving to be a significant and unpredictable liability to financial institutions. For example, within the last several years European banks have been increasingly plagued by teams of thieves who attack ATMs in the night, flood the machines with a mixture of oxygen and acetylene (gases usually used to fuel welding torches), and then ignite the volatile mixture, blowing the machines open. These attacks don’t just result in significant monetary losses (both in damage to the unit and building, as well as money stolen)—they’re also incredibly dangerous, as you can see here (the ATM is at the far right edge of the frame, in a mostly blue enclosure with a red top half):

This could easily result in injuries not just to the thieves, but also to passersby, staff, and even people in adjacent buildings. Although there have been no reported ATM “gas bombings” in the United States as of yet, the US currently leads the world in losses resulting from insecure ATM locations.

According to Jim Richards, “There are a lot of different ways that ATMs are deployed, but we have yet to see one we couldn’t secure.” In many cases Total Security Solutions favors a design similar to their bulletproof vestibule system used in schools, replacing the outer glass and doors of the ATM vestibule with bullet-resistant transparency and framing, and securing access to the ATM with a ballistic door outfitted with a card swipe-actuated computer-controlled electric strike. “Customers swipe their ATM card to gain access, and then the door latches behind them–just like any other security door. These are really easy retrofits for situations where the ATM is installed in the bank vestibule or outer lobby, but the same idea works with exterior-wall ATMs: You build a bulletproof glass curtain wall around an exterior wall-mounted ATM, with the same sort of card-swipe entry system. What’s key is that this solves both the skimmer/fraud/vandalism problem, as well as protecting customers.”

Painless Bandit Barrier Installation

Most importantly, owing to their decades of experience, Total Security Solutions has optimized their prep, design, fabrication, and installation processes. “It can be two teller stations or 15; we’re able to move on the project as quickly as the operations or facilities manager are ready.”

Bullet resistant barrier system installations are designed to absolutely minimize any business interruptions. Most installations can be completed overnight, with even the most challenging retrofits installed in under a weekend.

“I just returned from see[ing] the install and boy what nice work!” Holly Eades, vice-president of finance for Clark Energy wrote after having several payment offices secured by TSS. “They were here when they said they were going to be, … showed up when they were supposed to, and everything was just as neat as a pin. We were really, really tickled with their work.”

Source: http://www.tssbulletproof.com/high-function-custom-bullet-resistant-solutions-banks/

Product: Bullet Resistant Barriers

Tags: Glass | Safety | Security | Windows

Mantrap Portal Solutions Eliminate Piggybacking

Proven Mantrap Portal Solutions Cost-Effectively Replace "Do-It-Yourself" Vestibules

Today, many companies build their own mantrap vestibules. However, they often overlook how expensive and difficult it can be to achieve consistent, error-free piggybacking prevention. They don't know that an alternative solution already exists - Boon Edam security portals !

Do-It-Yourself Vestibule

Inability to measure false acceptance risks
Unpredictable false rejection rates
Must be manned and monitored at all times
High operational costs
Large footprint
Constant testing and troubleshooting

Mantrap Portal Solution

Proven solution with measurable false acceptance risks
Predictable and manageable false rejection rates
Completely unmanned solution
One-time investment with minimal operating costs
Space efficient
Quick and simple installation

Company: Boon Edam Inc.

Source: http://www.boonedam.us/mantrap-portal-solutions-eliminate-piggybacking

Tags: Doors | Entrances | Safety | Security

Iconic TWA Terminal Receives New Life

The TWA Flight Center at John F. Kennedy International Airport. Photo: Acroterion

After sitting vacant for 15 years, the Trans World Airlines (TWA) Terminal, located at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, will receive new life as a 505-room hotel. It will be the first on-site hotel for the JFK Airport and is set to open in 2018.

The TWA terminal originally opened its doors in 1962 and was designed by architect Eero Saarinen to resemble a bird in flight. Its layout, featuring a central main terminal with clusters of gates that branch out, was one of the first of its kind. The TWA terminal also featured enclosed passenger jetways, baggage carousels and electronic flight schedule boards. The main terminal is constructed of four curved steel-reinforced concrete shells that radiate out from a central point. Two of the curved concrete shells, the “wings of the bird,” feature purple-tinted glass windows that angle out as they extend upward toward the roof line and offer views of planes landing and departing. The interior spaces maintain the same fluidity as the curved exterior with floors that swoop into stairwells and walls that curve seamlessly into the floors.

Despite its architectural beauty, the functionality of the TWA Terminal was hindered by its ability to accommodate the development of larger airplanes and an increase in passenger traffic. In 1994, the building was voted as an official landmark by the Landmarks Preservation Commission, but after continued financial trouble, TWA filed bankruptcy and the original terminal was shut down in 2001. While ideas were proposed to repurpose the building, most were rejected or failed and the building was left dormant. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2005 and efforts later began to restore the building to its original beauty.

The iconic main TWA terminal will remain intact and become a showcase element in the development of the new TWA Hotel. It will be flanked by two crescent-shaped buildings, which will be home to guest rooms, eight restaurants, and conference rooms. A new cocktail bar and nightclub will also be incorporated into the original building. The ambitious project plans to incorporate technology which will enable the building to generate its own power and is expected to be LEED-certified.

Source: http://www.tssbulletproof.com/iconic-twa-terminal-receives-life/

Tags: Building | Design | Security

Parking Booth

From single unit commercial structures to airport plazas and municipal parking facilities, Par-Kut builds quality parking booths that last regardless the location. Solid welded construction and corrosion resistant materials help Par-Kut parking booths battle physical and environmental abuse while keeping your operation and your attendants safe, secure and comfortable. Par-Kut portable steel buildings withstand adversity and remain looking good for up to 25 years with little or no maintenance.

When contacting your skilled Par-Kut sales person, please have some information ready for us. In order to make sure your parking booth can pass code requirements we’d like to know where the booth will be used. The geographic location, city and state are very important in the design of the parking booth. As we build every booth custom for every client, you can be positive that it’ll meet or exceed all applicable code.

Par-Kut offers project specific drafting and design services in
addition to our exceptional manufacturing capabilities. This permits us to style and build you an ideal building that appears in-built, rather than “bolted on.” Regardless of what the look is, from the most basic to high finish style, we’ll work diligently to accommodate your style and parking booth requirements.

Parking lot booths from Par-Kut are built to your order and can be a simple shelter or valet booth, a parking cashier booth, or a security guard house. Factory assembled and delivered ready for easy hook up and immediate use, a Par-Kut parking booth provide the purchaser a secure parking lot office. Parking booths from Par-Kut can be outfitted with restrooms, bullet resistant construction, and platform mounting. Further, parking booths from Par-Kut can be standard, or architecturally enhanced to better blend with site surroundings.

Go to GALLERIES to view additional parking booths.

Company: Par-Kut International, Inc.

Source: http://www.parkut.com/booths/applications/parking-booths/

Tags: Entrances | Prefab | Safety | Security

Architectural Glass Takes on a New Shape

Glass has become such a common material in modern buildings, it’s often easy to forget that we are relatively early in understanding the extent of its capabilities. It wasn’t even until the early 1950s, with the development of an automated float glass manufacturing process that provided consistent high quality at a moderate cost, that glass was truly made available to the masses. The future of architectural glass, however, is taking on a new shape. The ability to curve and bend glass has helped to evolve this material from a means of allowing natural light within interior spaces to an artistic focal point.

Earlier this year, the design for the new Little Caesars Headquarters in Detroit, Michigan was unveiled, featuring 14-foot tall formed laminated glass shapes that loosely resemble a piece of pizza, the hallmark product of the company’s success. What seems so visually simplistic–a pane of glass bent down the middle–is actually an engineering marvel. The double-curved glass walls of the Emporia Shopping Mall, located in Sweden, is an example of the intricacies involved in manufacturing a large scale curved glass structure.

The Art of Bending Glass

There are several methods of curving or bending glass, including bending and tempering, hot bending, cold bending and lamination bending. In the case of lamination bending, the glass is first layered with other interlayer materials and then bent before ultimately being placed inside an autoclave at temperatures near 280°F to complete the lamination process. The extreme temperature causes the interlayer to soften to the consistency of honey and fill the crystalline of the glass, resulting in a laminated safety glass. Due to the autoclave process, however, the glass must actually be bent at a tighter radius than is ultimately desired because the heat will cause it to spring slightly back to its original shape.

The 804 double panes of glass installed at the Emporia Shopping Mall were manufactured by heating the glass, causing it to soften and through its own weight, take the shape of a mold. Almost 600 different molds were used to create the intricate curve pattern. Equally as important as the heating process, the glass had to be properly cooled to ensure there was no residual stress within the panel. The final step was laminating the panes of glass together using an amber or blue plastic film, which provided the desired color and safety characteristics.

Photo Credit: Emporia Shopping Center, by Håkan Dahlström

Source: http://www.tssbulletproof.com/architectural-glass-takes-shape/

Tags: Design | Glass | Safety | Security

Source: https://www.accuride.com/senseon/loss-prevention-retail-security-for-the-holidays/

Loss Prevention: Ramping Up Retail Security for the Holidays

The season of giving is upon us, and with that comes an increase in sales–as well as an increase in shrinkage across the retail industry. Shrinkage is the loss of inventory often attributed to theft. That’s especially so in the holiday season, as indicated by loss prevention specialist Ernie Deyle’s holiday season forecast. As Deyle explains, the holiday season is a time when “people tend to rationalize immoral behavior like shoplifting. It’s much easier to do so when a child’s Christmas present is at stake rather than an extra bathing suit for the summer.”

According to Deyle’s research, shrinkage increases to about 38% during the holiday season from 22% the previous quarter. With that in mind, loss prevention managers and operations managers everywhere are constantly looking for solutions to reduce shrinkage and increase profit. Deyle’s report advises retailers employ technology to stabilize inventory loss and ensure shelf availability while enhancing retail display security.

With how fast technology is advancing, it’s no surprise that loss prevention technology is evolving at such an exponential rate. Even small convenience stores are capable of running facial recognition technology. According to Tyco Integrated Security’s director of business development, Lee Pernice, “RFID is something else that is not new to retail, but it has come a long way in both cost and use cases.”

How Senseon Can Help?

Senseon Secure Access is one of the ways RFID technology has evolved over the years. Senseon systems lock and unlock up to 15 doors or cabinet drawers simultaneously with the tap of an RFID card or fob. This inconspicuous, easy-to-install secure access system can be the solution to a wide array of retail shrinkage troubles.

Senseon Secure Access can be programmed to support up to 100 users, including five administrators. Employees thus have ready access to merchandise on the sales floor, rather than having to wait for a manager with a key to retrieve customer’s items. In addition, a lost or missing key is no problem: an administrator can program or delete card/fob access instantly.

Loss prevention has the potential to move forward as a cost-saver and a time-saver for retailers across the world. With Senseon Secure Access retailers can be sure that all their inventory will be secure this busy shopping season.

For more information on how Senseon Secure Access System can be tailored to fit your needs, visit http://www.senseonsecure.com/ or call us at 800.688.8242.

Company: Accuride International

Product: Senseon Secure Access Control

Tags: Furniture | Interior Design | Security

Source: http://www.boonedam.us/news/4-gotchas-could-derail-your-front-entrance-security-upgrades

4 'Gotchas' that could derail your front entrance security upgrades

We’ve installed thousands of campus entry solutions, talked to end users all over the world and have developed a comprehensive process for choosing the right security entrance. That said, no process is perfect, and we’ve come to observe that certain organizations will consider some of the decision criteria quite well but leave out one or two factors. We call these the “Gotchas,” and when forgetting or ignoring any one of the criteria, you can end up with a security entrance that doesn’t address the needs of your organization.

We divide the entrance solution decision-making process into two parts: before installation and after. Before Installation, purchase decisions are often weighted towards security, aesthetics and return on investment (ROI). After installation, however, and once there is no going back, throughput, training, service and safety play a more prominent role.

While initially aesthetics or security usually jump out as paramount, all seven decision factors contribute to an effective security solution. For most decisions, the criteria before installation are relatively prominent and well understood. Where the “Gotchas” rear their less-than-pleasant heads is in the pesky factors that often don’t occur to the decision-makers until the new security entrance has been installed.

After installation, it is crucial to incorporate each of the following criteria into a comprehensive decision-making process so that you’ll select the right solution for your campus.

1) User Throughput

Throughput (how quickly authorized individuals can enter your facility) affects users directly on a daily basis and is critical to user acceptance of a new security entrance. Before you commit to a particular kind of entrance solution, carefully and manually calculate the throughput requirements for your entrances, ideally during a 5-minute rush hour period. Note deliveries and wheelchairs. Don’t rely solely on access control numbers if you have swinging doors, as multiple tailgaters could enter on a single authorization and reduce the count. Once you have the counts, research security entrances’ throughput specs. It’s also worthwhile to inquire if a solution allows for card stacking, which is explained in the following example:

Example: A Houston-based company installed an array of optical turnstiles in their regional headquarters lobby. Unfortunately, they did not research throughput numbers, and the turnstiles they installed required each user to badge in, walk through the turnstile, and then for the turnstile barrier to reclose before the next user. During peak times, lines would form. Eventually, the company decided to replace the turnstiles in favor of a model that allowed multiple registrations with access control (card stacking) prior to entering and also kept its barriers open as long as all of the users were authorized. The difference was an increase in throughput from 22 to 60 people per minute per lane—and that made all the difference.

2) Technical & End User Training

Training usually isn’t considered a major factor when choosing an entry product, yet it is key to long term success and customer satisfaction. Since most manufacturers do not directly install their products, they should provide a comprehensive technical training program and some form of certification to create successful service providers for end users.

Example: A financial services company purchased an array of high security portals to protect a sensitive area for records and data. A few months after installation, which had been supervised by the manufacturer, one of the portals required service because it was rejecting authorized users. When a technician from the local distributor arrived he took one look at the portal and said, “I’ve never seen one of these before.” He then spent hours on the phone with the manufacturer to receive on-the-fly training. Clearly, there was a training disconnect between the manufacturer and the distributor.

3) Service Considerations

Service considerations typically come last or not at all when making a buying decision. Yet, during and after installation, the level of service directly impacts continued operations and ROI.

Example: A Philadelphia office tower installed two optical turnstiles in their main lobby that matched the building’s aesthetics beautifully. After a few years, one of the turnstiles stopped working and a part had to be ordered from Europe — downtime was estimated at four weeks. With only two opticals in their lobby, having one out of service was unacceptable and the owner immediately began looking into replacing the turnstiles. Elsewhere in Pennsylvania, a Pittsburgh hospital had a security door that was out of service. Management was shocked to find out that the nearest authorized service provider was over eight hours away — gotcha!

Consider the negative impact of a delayed installation or service visit, or delayed parts availability on your building entrance procedures — all because service was left out of the decision-making process.

4) Product Safety

Safety, too, is rarely discussed during the bidding process. However, it is the one factor that could quickly and possibly tragically undermine the success of the project. Most security entrances use a barrier of some kind. The more sophisticated barriers use presence sensors to detect objects or users. Before buying, ask how a product prevents entrapment or contact, and how it responds to either event. The answers should then be weighed against your security vs. safety needs, your users and their ability to be trained, the product’s response to an incident during peak periods (does it stop and require re-badging?), and whether large objects are typically carried or pulled behind.

Example: A California software company wanted a secure revolving door that only allowed authorized users to enter at night and also provided piggybacking prevention. During the day, however, they wanted the same door to allow the public to enter along with any children for a daycare center inside. The architect was unaware that piggybacking prevention and public use don’t mix very well, especially with children involved. A security revolving door requires users to be trained. The door’s small quadrants, which are ideal for a single person and piggybacking prevention, lack the trailing door wing sensors that large automatic revolvers must have for public safety. This is because such sensors would stop the door far too often. Due to frequent contact incidents, the company decided the public need was greater than the piggybacking prevention and they had to incur the expense of replacing it with a manual revolving door that had a night-locking feature with an access control system to allow off-hours employee access.

Forget Campus Culture at Your Own Peril

We’ve discussed seven crucial decision factors here, but there is one more factor to consider: culture. Culture permeates all the other decision factors and is critical to success. Do people care about their personal safety in Boise at the same level as those in Manhattan? Are all management stakeholders involved in the buying decision, from CEO to finance to HR to administration to residence life to the facility manager? Is there high employee turnover or students requiring recurring training? Campus safety decision makers should understand your campus or company culture and be willing to assist in implementing a culture shift through communication and training.

Example: A state university in North Carolina installed optical turnstiles with drop arm barriers at its recreational facility to prevent unauthorized access to gym equipment and reduce liability. A receptionist registers each student with the access control system and then opens the barriers. This ensures that freshman get an orientation to entrance procedures. Eventually, over several years the university will phase in a biometric access control system that will allow bypassing the receptionist. At first, it will be voluntary, rewarding those who register with an expedited entry. Eventually, it will be universal. This staged approach ensures a smooth culture shift.

Example: Another more drastic example of culture affecting the deployment of security solutions happened a few years ago at a West Coast internet company. A new CEO was hired, and he ordered the turnstiles in the front lobby to be removed because “this company isn’t about barriers.” So, it pays to inform the CEO of new security measures and why such measures were taken! Speaking of the West Coast, some companies allow dogs to come to work, which greatly affects which security entrances can be used safely and effectively.

The success (or failure) of a security entrance project must start and end with a comprehensive, consultative process that considers the full range of factors for the ultimate decision. As we’ve seen above, a conscientious leader can preside over a process that includes most of the eight essential criteria. However, forget one and even a careful, comprehensive effort can result in a big “gotcha” that brings a new security entrance project to a crashing halt.

Company: Boon Edam Inc.

Tags: Design | Entrances | Security